The system’s RAM (Random Access Memory) prevents the PC from achieving its maximum capable performance. This occurs because the processor (CPU) is faster than the RAM, and usually it has to wait for the RAM to deliver data. During this wait time the CPU is idle, doing nothing (that’s not entirely true, but it fits our explanation). In a perfect computer, the RAM would be as fast as the CPU. Dual-, triple-, and quad-channel are techniques used to double, triple, or quadruple the communication speed between the memory controller and the RAM, thus increasing the system performance. In this tutorial, we will explain everything you need to know about these technologies: how they work, how to set them up, how to calculate transfer speeds, and more.

When discussing memory kits, there is often little difference in our testing when comparing different Command Rate numbers – the only issues ever came along with DDR3-1333 C9 and DDR3-1600 C11, which we already suggested are best avoided. Even still, above DDR3-2400 the benefits are minimal at best, with perhaps a few % points afforded in multiple GPU setups.